The process optimisation timeline can be tedious, with small changes over a lengthy period of time, to ensure process stability is maintained. It is no surprise that when a new plant is installed, this is no different. There are two main roles in a new digester start up that are key. These are the technology provider and the operator of the equipment.
Process Design
At this stage, there will often be a greenfield site with the opportunity for a biogas facility. After all necessary planning applications and permits have been granted then the technology provider can start designing the process. This is not a one size fits all process, as each site will have many variables such as, feedstock, outputs, physical space, access and egress, and limitations due to permits.
Start Up/Commissioning
Once the design has been created, and the installation has taken place, the plant can then be started up and commissioned. The operator will be trained on how the process should run and what to do if it is not acting how it should. It is the technology providers duty to ensure the system is properly tested and all control systems are functioning correctly.
Early-Stage Operation
At this stage the technology provider has commissioned the system and provided training. It is now the job of the operator to monitor the system and make any adjustments they see necessary. This phase is about keeping the process stable, whilst keeping alterations to a minimum, to set data and performance benchmarks. Once these benchmarks have been set, this can then be fed back for analysis to implement changes that need to be made. It is at this point where the process optimisation timeline begins.
Mid Stage Operation
Now that the benchmark data has been accumulated, it can then be assessed for areas of improvement. At this stage the operators can start to detect anomalies within the process and put an action plan in place to overcome this. Once optimisations have been made, then the process is continuously monitored to determine a new set of benchmark data.
Later Stage Operation
Once optimisations have been made and the process has started to mature, the emphasis can now be put on planning to maintain the performance of the digester. Whilst this is going on, plans should also be in place for unexpected circumstances within the digester, or any part of the process. This is to keep any downtime or potential inefficiencies of the process to a minimum.
Reference – ROOTS Organics Ltd
